[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Film Industry

[Saif]

Courtney Coffey took to social media to express her gratitude for ‘Rajkumar’

"Rajkumar" premiered across 125 halls nationwide during Eid, garnering significant attention and praise from audiences since its release.

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Courtney Coffey took to social media to express her gratitude for 'Rajkumar'

Photos: Collected

American actress Courtney Coffey has joined forces with Shakib Khan for the film "Rajkumar", which marks her first venture with a Bangladeshi star.

Out of 212 cinema halls, the film has secured three-fourths of them in terms of rental. "Rajkumar" premiered across 125 halls nationwide during Eid, garnering significant attention and praise from audiences since its release.

Courtney Coffey took to social media to express her joy and gratitude, stating, "I am thrilled and elated. Through "Rajkumar", the people of Bangladesh have embraced me. Thank you all. This makes me proud."

Additionally, in Bangla, Coffey conveyed, "I love and appreciate everyone from the depths of my heart. I am hopeful that "Rajkumar" will be a super hit for our beloved audience."

Shakib Khan has been ecstatic about the success of "Rajkumar", expressing deep gratitude towards the audience. On Monday (April 15), the superstar shared on social media, "Rajkumar is receiving boundless love from millions. This is only possible because of our beloved audience. Much love to all."

The film "Rajkumar" is centered around family relationships and the ambitious journey of a young man from Bangladesh to America.​

 

[Saif]

Tareen to make Tollywood debut this month

Renowned Bangladeshi actress Tareen is making her debut in Indian Bengali cinema with the film "Eta Amader Golpo”, which is all set for release in Kolkata on April 26.

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Tareen to make Tollywood debut this month

Photos: Collected

Renowned Bangladeshi actress Tareen is making her debut in Indian Bengali cinema with the film "Eta Amader Golpo", which is all set for release in Kolkata on April 26.

Under the direction of Manasi Sinha, Tareen portrayed a significant role in this film. The recently released trailer has garnered widespread acclaim, earning praise for Tareen's performance.

Essentially, the movie's narrative unfolds through the lens of respect and other dynamics within a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. Tareen expressed, "It's a beautifully crafted story in which the director paid meticulous attention to detail. The cast members also performed wholeheartedly."

In addition to Tareen, the film features actors Kharaj Mukherjee, Saswata Chatterjee, Aparajita Auddy, and others.

Notably, the Tareen starrer Liberation War-based film "1971 Shei Shob Din" was released around the same time last year.​

 

[Saif]

Farooki’s ‘Something Like an Autobiography’ lands UK’s Channel 4 deal

Centred on a Dhaka-based married couple– filmmaker Farhan, portrayed by Farooki himself, and actor Tithi, played by Tisha– the narrative explores their journey amidst societal pressure to start a family. As Tithi's pregnancy progresses, an unexpected incident sheds light on contemporary...

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Farooki's 'Something Like an Autobiography' lands UK's Channel 4 deal

Photos: Collected

Filmmaker Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and his wife, actress Nusrat Imrose Tisha, have reached a new milestone as their film "Something Like an Autobiography" has been selected by Channel 4 for broadcast in the UK.

The film's world premiere took place at the 2023 Busan International Film Festival, where it competed in the esteemed Jiseok category. "Something Like an Autobiography" was also featured at the 2023 Mumbai Film Festival in the South Asian icon segment.

Centred on a Dhaka-based married couple– filmmaker Farhan, portrayed by Farooki himself, and actor Tithi, played by Tisha– the narrative explores their journey amidst societal pressure to start a family. As Tithi's pregnancy progresses, an unexpected incident sheds light on contemporary Bangladeshi society's realities.

Drawing inspiration from Kurosawa Akira's memoir by the same name, the film's title offers a glimpse into the real lives of Farooki and Tisha, a renowned celebrity couple in Bangladesh who hold significant stature in the country's film industry.

Expressing his sentiments, Farooki shared to Variety, "This is a special film for me and Tisha. Personal, embarrassing and rewarding at the same time. I am happy the film will be seen by the Channel 4 audience. Hope they will be able to connect with the universal theme although portrayed through local details."

Produced by Redoan Rony for the Bangladeshi streaming platform Chorki, with co-production support from Nina Lath, Anna Katchko, and Tisha, the film forms part of Chorki's ambitious "Ministry of Love" project, comprising 12 films.

Redoan Rony, Chorki's CEO, expressed delight at Channel 4's decision and said "Channel 4 is an esteemed broadcaster. We are glad that they chose to showcase our film to their audience. Chorki always wants to make quality films and series. This is a clear sign we are moving in the right direction."

"Something Like an Autobiography" is set to be featured at the upcoming Sydney Film Festival, marking another milestone for Farooki and Tisha's collaboration.

Looking ahead, Farooki's next project, "To Hell With Love", a Hindi and English-language romance set in the UK, has garnered attention following its participation in India's Cinevesture International Film Festival's project market.​

 

[Saif]

Three Bangladeshi Eid films make their way abroad

Amidst the list of films released on Eid-ul-Fitr, the first to hit international screens is the Himel Ashraf directorial film “Rajkumar”, starring Shakib Khan. Following its domestic reception, the film has been screened in 75 theaters across the United States and Canada since April 19.

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Three Bangladeshi Eid films make their way abroad

Photos: Collected

Amidst the list of films released on Eid-ul-Fitr, the first to hit international screens is the Himel Ashraf directorial film "Rajkumar", starring Shakib Khan. Following its domestic reception, the film has been screened in 75 theaters across the United States and Canada since April 19.

The film's international distribution has been handled by Swapna Scarecrow. Courtney Coffey stars opposite Shakib Khan in "Rajkumar", with additional cast members including Tariq Anam Khan, Mahiya Mahi, and many others.

This Eid-ul-Fitr, three movies featuring Sariful Razz have been released. Amongst them, the film "Omar", directed by Mohammad Mostafa Kamal Raz, is set to be released in India and abroad on April 26.

The movie will initially be screened in multiplex theatres across approximately 20 states in the United States, followed by screenings in the remaining states until May 12.

"Omar" is scheduled to release in Sweden on April 28. Additionally, starting on May 10, the movie will be showcased in several multiplexes across Canada, including Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, Montreal, Calgary, and Edmonton. Bioscope Films serves as the international distributor of this movie.

Another Sariful Razz starrer Eid-ul-Fitr movie, "Deyaler Desh", directed by Mishuk Moni is set to release in Australia on May 3. The film also features Shobnom Bubly, Swagata, and many others.

Notably, Star Cineplex has unveiled its list of top five Eid movies for the first week. Topping the list of Bengali movies is "Rajkumar", while "Deyaler Desh" secured the second spot.​

 

[Saif]

Courtney Coffey expresses dismay over promotional neglect

The first poster of the film “Rajkumar” was unveiled in late March, featuring only Shakib Khan prominently. While the names of the hero, director (Himel Ashraf), and producer (Arshad Adnan) were highlighted in bold letters, the heroine's picture or name was notably absent. Viewers speculated...

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Courtney Coffey expresses dismay over promotional neglect

Photos: Collected

The first poster of the film "Rajkumar" was unveiled in late March, featuring only Shakib Khan prominently. While the names of the hero, director (Himel Ashraf), and producer (Arshad Adnan) were highlighted in bold letters, the heroine's picture or name was notably absent. Viewers speculated that the hero and heroine might appear together in the next poster, but that didn't materialise either.

Subsequently, most promotional materials released on social media for the campaign needed the name of the heroine, Courtney Coffey. The American actress expressed her regret and frustration about this situation, feeling that she had been discriminated against.

Despite "Rajkumar" being released in Courtney Coffey's home country, the United States, since April 19, posters featuring only Shakib's picture and name have been displayed across various theatres and roadside locations, further exacerbating her sense of exclusion.

On her social media platform, Courtney Coffey expressed her dismay, stating, "Has anyone in the United States seen my name on the 'Rajkumar' movie posters in theatres? So far, I have not seen my name on any of the posters. If anyone comes across a poster, please send it to me. I want to proudly stand next to it and take a picture in my own country."

A few viewers of Coffey's post shared pictures of some posters from theatres in Bangladesh where her name is indeed mentioned. However, her name appears at the very bottom of the poster — in small letters. In response to this, Courtney cited the example of last year's film 'Priyotoma', where foreign actress Idhika Paul, from Calcutta, acted opposite Shakib Khan. In that case, both the actress and Shakib's names were prominently displayed in large letters on the poster.

Another viewer from New York posted a picture in the comments section, mentioning that he saw the actress' name on a poster displayed at the Jamaica Multiplex. Coffey expressed her gratitude, stating, "Thank you. I couldn't see the name because it was positioned below in very small letters. I do not know why this has been done."

Regrettably, Courtney Coffey expressed, "My name needed to be featured prominently so that other companies in the United States could consider hiring me. Additionally, the names of all the other heroines are displayed alongside Shakib's name in his other films; their names are not relegated to small, inconspicuous letters below."

Coffey had also previously expressed discontentment with the "Rajkumar" team. For instance, viewers have questioned her lip-syncing in the film's song, pointing out discrepancies. However, the actress posted a reel video on Sunday (April 21), demonstrating improved lip-syncing to the song. In response to this, Coffey commented, "I shared the video to demonstrate my capability. However, the production team opted not to use my lip-syncing skills, despite my qualifications!"

The dissatisfaction surrounding Courtney Coffey's involvement in the film extends further, as she appears in some scenes seemingly without much consideration, leading to criticism from viewers. However, the actress asserts that her portrayal was per the script. To substantiate her claim, she shared a picture of the script on Facebook as evidence.

These instances highlight Coffey's discord with the 'Rajkumar' team on various matters. However, there has been no response from the filmmaker, producer, or lead actor regarding any of these issues.

Notably, "Rajkumar" was released in hundreds of theaters across the country on April 11, coinciding with Eid-ul-Fitr, and has since emerged as the most successful film of the season. In addition to its domestic success, the film is now being screened in the USA and Canada. Furthermore, it is scheduled to be released in Australia on April 25.​

 

[Saif]

'Toofan’s' script impressed me, excited to start the project: Chanchal Chowdhury

Appreciating the initiative, the “Karagar” actor said, "On a foreign land, and named after such a great actress, Suchitra Sen, this is a celebration. It feels great to come here and to be a part of this festival. Apart from that, the reunion of the artistes from both sides of the border is also...

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'Toofan's' script impressed me, excited to start the project: Chanchal Chowdhury

Photo: Collected

For the first time, the audience will witness Dhallywood 'King' Shakib Khan and offbeat emperor Chanchal Chowdhury sharing the screen, in Raihan Rafi's "Toofan". Chanchal will join the team of "Toofan" in India the day after tomorrow, after returning from the USA.

Chanchal attended the Suchitra Sen International Bengali Film Festival on April 20 and 21 recently, and has received the award for Best Actor in his film "Hawa". The award was held at the iconic Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) in New York. The film also bagged several other honours including the Best Actress (Nazifa Tushi), Best Cinematography (Kamrul Hasan Khosru and Tanveer Ahmed Shovon), and Best Film award.

During his stay in the US, the actor told The Daily Star, "Shakib and I were acquainted long before. However, this is our first collaboration for a film. We met many times, and even had many long sessions of gossip.

Chanchal is confident that the project will be a remarkable one, as its script instantly wowed him. He is also amazed with Raihan Rafi's vision. "I congratulate the entire team, and particularly the producers for making this happen."

The "Monpura" actor highlighted the fact that for a sustainable film industry, it is important to entice the audience to theatres.

Upon receiving the award for his portrayal of Chan Majhi in Hawa, the actor shared, "This film is one of my career's best projects, the audience and critics have appreciated and loved this film. As an actor, it is always inspiring to receive awards for your work."

Appreciating the initiative, the "Karagar" actor said, "On a foreign land, and named after such a great actress, Suchitra Sen, this is a celebration. It feels great to come here and to be a part of this festival. Apart from that, the reunion of the artistes from both sides of the border is also amazing."​

 

[Saif]

Bangladeshi film wins award at Moscow Int’l Film Festival

The Bangladeshi film "Nirvana" directed by Asif Islam has won the Special Jury Award at the 46th Moscow International Film Festival.

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Bangladeshi film wins award at Moscow Int'l Film Festival

Photo: Collected

The Bangladeshi film "Nirvana" directed by Asif Islam has won the Special Jury Award at the 46th Moscow International Film Festival.

This achievement follows in the footsteps of Juboraj Shamim's "Adim", which received the Silver Saint George Award (Special Jury Award) and the Netpack Jury Award at the 44th Moscow International Film Festival.

The 46th Moscow International Film Festival concluded its eight-day run on Friday (April 26). The closing ceremony took place in the evening local time in Moscow, where the winners of best film, best producer, and best actors were announced.

Additionally, Russian director and screenwriter Sergei Ursulak was honoured for his contributions to the world of cinema, this year.

Photo: Collected

Furthermore, the film "Shame", a collaborative production between Mexico and Qatar, secured the Best Film Award. Iranian director Nahid Azizi received the Best Director Award for her film "Cold Sign", while Juan Ramón López was honoured with the Best Actor Award for his performance in "Shame".

Previously, Juboraj Shamim's "Adim" competed in the 44th edition, and Nurul Alam Atique's "Peyarar Subash" was selected and screened at the 45th edition of the festival.

Priyam mesmerises at the MIFF, accompanied by 'Nirvana' director Asif Islam

Noteworthy mentions include Mostofa Sarwar Farooki's "Doob" and "Saturday Afternoon," alongside Jasim Ahmed's production, and Indranil Roy's directorial "Mayar Jonjal".​

 

[Saif]

Chanchal, Shakib meet for ‘Toofan’ in Kolkata

This Eid-ul-Fitr, Chanchal starrer web film “Monogamy”, directed by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and web series “Rumi” directed by Vicky Zahed, were released on OTT platforms. The actor was praised for both his roles.

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Chanchal, Shakib meet for 'Toofan' in Kolkata

Photos: Collected

Dhaka is suffering from an intense heatwave, so is Kolkata. Amidst the heatwave, the shooting of Raihan Rafi's "Toofan" is underway. Chanchal Chowdhury recently joined the shoot after returning from the US. For the first time, Chanchal and Shakib are sharing the screen.

"We have already shot several scenes already," Chanchal informed The Daily Star from Kolkata, over the phone. "The weather in Kolkata is extremely humid, and in such a condition, the team is really putting a lot of effort in such a condition."

The "Karagar" actor also shared that the technical support is taken from India, while all of the crew members are from Bangladesh. Upon asking what his expectation from the film is, Chanchal stated, "I have just begun the shooting, after completing the shoot I can actually comment on the experience. Rafi has a good sense of direction, he has already proved his talent to the audience, I am hopeful that together we can present something unique to the people."

This Eid-ul-Fitr, Chanchal starrer web film "Monogamy", directed by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and web series "Rumi" directed by Vicky Zahed, were released on OTT platforms. The actor was praised for both his roles.​